Spoiler alert: It’s similar to fresh flowers.
Getty Images
Theres a reason basil has been dubbed the King of Herbs.
Nothing can beat the powerful notes basil brings to the culinary table, Chef Robin Stybe tellsSouthern Living.
Credit:Getty Images
Fresh basil is the best choice for the full-bodied flavor and subtle nuances associated with the magical herb.
Knowing how to store basil is important in making it last as long as possible.
How To Store Basil
According to Stybe, the secret is storing basil like fresh flowers.
Credit:Getty Images
If you plan to store your basil for a week or more, I will follow this advice.
In my kitchen, fresh basil would never stay around that long!
Since basil is a tropical herb, Stybe explains that it is very susceptible to cold temperatures.
Credit:Getty Images
This causes cellular damage that results in blackening of the leaves.
Once basil leaves have degraded, they will spoil quickly.
What Temperature Is Best For Storing Basil?
Room temperature is best, because of the cold sensitivity of basil.
She adds, It is important to note, refrigeration almost always reduces the life of fresh basil.
Neverwash basilbefore storing, regardless of the storage method you choose, she says.
Washing introduces excess moisture and bruises the leaves both deadly to the life of fresh basil.
Stybe encourages shoppers to use all their senses when choosing fresh basil at a market or store.
Can You Freeze Basil?
There are several successful freezing methods to preserving the taste of fresh basil in the freezer.
Most authorities recommend blanching to preserve the bright green color in frozen basil.
A few purists prefer skipping this process to preserve the flavor lost during blanching.
Its a personal preference, with no right or wrong answer.
One tablespoon of oil to each cup of herbs produces a very herb forward mixture.
Increase the amount of oil to produce a looser, less herby mixture.
The only additional process would be cooling the blanching stock before processing with the cooled, dry basil leaves.
